Part of what makes Bali such an exciting destination is the vast variety of landscapes that tourists can enjoy.
Even just looking at one kind of landscape, let’s say, the coast, there are so many different kinds of beaches to explore: white sand beaches, surf beaches, pebble beaches, black sand beaches, tidal beaches, world-famous beaches, romantic retreat beaches, best for sunsets, best for sunrises, and family-friendly beaches.
There are a few signs to look out for when picking a family-friendly beach in Bali.
Our criteria are that the overall resort or village area where the beach is located is safe, well-staffed, and has local security teams most of the time, lifeguarding teams, whether or not it is safe to swim, and public facilities such as bathrooms, parking, and cafes.
Our favorite family-friendly beaches in Bali tick all of these boxes and are great to visit, whatever the season.
Sanur Beach is Bali’s OG coastal resort and easily Bali’s most family-friendly beachside destination. While areas like Kuta and Legian have become the go-to family-friendly beach vacation hangouts, we have a real soft spot for Sanur.
The sand is pristine and pearly white, and the beach walk that runs along almost all of the Sanur resort area makes it super easy for a family to navigate, especially with prams, buggies, and toddlers in tow.
The ocean is safe to swim in along almost all of the Sanur coast area. Whether the tide is in or out, the water remains shallow for meters upon meters before becoming deeper than an adult’s waist height.
What is particularly good about Sanur as a family-friendly beach resort is that there are several different areas to explore.
Many of the top resorts have claimed a ‘private’ stretch of Sanur Beach, so if you’re seeking a more luxurious stay, be sure to find a hotel with direct access to the beachfront. Pantai Bopel, by Genius Cafe and just steps from Prama Sanur Beach Hotel, is an excellent, family-friendly stretch of the Sanur coastline.
There is a playground for little ones who need a change of scenery from the beach itself, public toilets, and changing rooms, and sun loungers and umbrellas are always available to hire.
Just steps further down the coast is the holy Mertasari Beach, a much-loved hangout for local families, especially on the weekends.
The cove is always filled with multi-generational families enjoying the sunshine. Again, the water is shallow, and the waves are never too strong.
There are not often lifeguards on duty at Mertasari Beach, and guards are only stationed at certain points along Sanur Beach throughout the year, so be sure to enter the water where you and your family feel safe to do so.
Gunung Payung Beach, down on the Bukit Peninsula, is steadily increasing in popularity with international tourists, and more people should check it out.
This family-friendly beach always has plenty of security staff to help with parking, keep an eye on activity on the beachfront, and help support tourists with accessing the beach.
It is a great spot for snorkeling, and the water is always crystal clear. At low tide, there are hardly any waves, making it great for kids who want to paddle under the close supervision of their grown-ups.
Sun loungers and umbrellas are available to hire. Unlike many of Bali’s most famous beaches, Gunung Payung is backed by the white cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula, which gives the beach a whole different energy.
Gunung Payung Beach is pretty quiet compared to many of Bali’s most well-known beaches; however, be aware that the walk from the car park is pretty steep.
Little ones with little legs might need a little help along the way!
The best family-friendly beaches in Bali, both as vacation destinations and as day trips, are Nusa Dua Beach, Jimbaran Beach, and Candidasa Beach, our wild card in East Bali.
All are worth exploring for your next vacation on the Island of the Gods.
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Drs. Bo Doh
Tuesday 24th of June 2025
Bali is not safe to visit for a family unless you want to be scammed and be exposed to some serious health and safety issues..
Exp
Monday 23rd of June 2025
Enter the water at south Bali beaches? What happen to the regular E.Coli sampling and reporting for these beaches? Have a look at the water in the rivers and drains. This is the water mixed in with seawater at the beaches.